Statutory release works its magic upon another fine specimen of the Convict-Canadian community, who has, no doubt, been fully rehabilitated and represents no foreseeable danger to the general public.

A man who choked a young Korean student into permanent severe disability is getting out of prison early, to the horror of the victim’s family.

Robert Gary Wallin is slated for release Jan. 18 after serving two-thirds of his sentence, in accordance with federal law.

… The parole board found Wallin, who plans to live with his parents in
the Lower Mainland, is still willing to use violence or aggression to
achieve his goals. He has watched a television special about Park and
her life following the attack.

This guy choked a random Vancouver girl into a coma. Before the attack, she spoke four languages, and played the piano and flute. Today she’s in a wheelchair, unable to speak.

The victim’s family were not notified of the con’s impending release. Why? Because you have to register with a specific Corrections Canada program in order to get those notices. And according to the victim’s brother, nobody bothered to tell them that this program was available. Nice.

The best part is the excerpts of the parole board’s decision that the CanWest reporter elects to highlight. In the story, the board appears to have a case of schizophrenia, because the statements they make are at odds. Here’s The Bad Wallin:

Wallin has a history of psychiatric problems, including attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and oppositional defiant disorder, and quit taking medications because he believes he requires “no medication or any other form of treatment,” according to parole-board documents.

“You have a pattern of violent outbursts,” the parole board wrote in a decision on Wallin’s release conditions, “making demands, reporting unsubstantiated claims about your personal safety and drawing sexually inappropriate graffiti images.”

Doesn’t sound so good, does it? Now read about The Good Wallin:

The parole board noted Wallin has supportive parents and has made positive changes.

“You are keenly aware of what led to your crime and its impact, and have taken steps to reduce your risk of repeating this behaviour,” the board wrote.

The board imposed conditions for Wallin’s release, including a prohibition on contacting Park or her family without permission from his parole supervisor. Wallin must also attend psychiatric treatment and counselling.

Well, which is it? Is he a violent nutbag refusing to take medications and “any other form of treatment”? Or is he conscientious con who is “keenly aware of what led to his crime” and anxious to prevent another one? Context, anyone?